In the world of handguns, finding the perfect balance between performance, reliability, and comfort is no easy feat. Many firearms excel in one area but fall short in another, leaving shooters with tough choices to make. However, the Hammerli Forge H1 aims to change the game by offering a handgun that doesn’t just check all the boxes—it redefines them.

The Hammerli Forge H1 .22 LR 1911

Providing a good experience for competitive shooters, casual plinksters, and everyone in between, read on as we examine why this .22 caliber pistol is worthy of space within your gun safe.

Right out of the box, it is evident that Hammerli’s attention to detail is unmatched. If you are already a 1911 junkie, then you’re in for a treat. The H1 features a fully machined stainless-steel slide and frame, giving it a robust yet refined feel.

This isn’t just about aesthetics—this construction ensures that the handgun remains durable and reliable, even after thousands of rounds. The slide-to-frame fit is nearly seamless, with no discernible play, which speaks to the engineering that went into this firearm. The barrel, made from hammer-forged steel, is designed for accuracy, with a match-grade chamber that tightens up groupings even for shooters with less-than-perfect form.

The H1 also sports a polished feed ramp, which minimizes potential misfeeds and ensures that every shot is smooth and reliable.

As far as the H1’s trigger goes, Hammerli has opted for a flat-faced, adjustable trigger, which can be fine-tuned to suit individual preferences. With each shot, the trigger breaks crisply at just over 4 pounds, with a short reset allowing rapid follow-up shots. Regardless of the shooting discipline you find yourself partaking in, this trigger delivers consistent performance.

The H1 In Hand

The Hammerli Forge H1 doesn’t just excel in its construction; it’s also quite ergonomic for a sub-caliber pistol. The H1’s grip is designed to fit a wide range of hand sizes comfortably.

The interchangeable backstraps allow shooters to customize the fit to their liking, making it a great option for both men and women. The texturing on the grip is aggressive enough to ensure a firm hold without being overly abrasive. It strikes a perfect balance between comfort and control. This handgun can also accept your favorite aftermarket 1911 grips, further expanding its customization potential.

Handling during the firing process is as simple as can be. The recoil is more than manageable, especially considering the gun is chambered in 22LR, thus allowing for quicker target reacquisition. This is particularly beneficial for competitive shooters who need to stay on target through rapid sequences of fire.

The handgun also features an extended beavertail, which further enhances grip stability and helps prevent slide bite. The controls—slide stop, magazine release, and safety—are all ambidextrous, catering to both right- and left-handed shooters. The safety itself is a frame-mounted, 1911-style safety. It provides both tactile and audible feedback when engaged, so there’s no second-guessing your firearm’s status.

Shooting the Hammerli Forge H1

The true test of any handgun lies in how it performs under fire, and the Hammerli Forge H1 does not disappoint. For this round of testing, we chose to use the following: Federal Punch Flat Note 29gr. 22LR, Winchester’s XPert 42gr. 22LR, and CCI’s Clean 42gr. Target 22LR.

The H1 cycled flawlessly through all of them, a much-welcomed experience, as we all know how finicky 22LR can be through various firearms.

Accuracy results were consistent across the board. At a distance of 25 yards, the H1 consistently produced groupings of under three inches, with the majority of shots landing within a 2-inch spread. Of the three varieties used during testing, Federal and CCI’s offerings pulled into the lead. Winchester followed a short half-inch behind.

Even at longer distances, the handgun maintained its precision, making it a viable option for those who may need to engage targets at varying ranges. One feature that contributes to this level of accuracy is the H1’s sighting system. Hammerli has equipped the H1 with a fiber-optic front sight paired with an adjustable rear sight, allowing shooters to dial in their aim with precision.

The bright, easy-to-see front sight is especially helpful in low-light conditions. Correspondingly, the rear sight’s serrated surface reduces glare, providing a clear sight picture in all lighting environments.

Another standout in the H1’s performance is its recoil management. Thanks to the combination of its low bore axis, ergonomic grip, and the weight distribution of its all-steel frame, the H1 is remarkably soft shooting. As can be expected, recoil was easily manageable, with follow-up shots placed both quickly and accurately.

Final Thoughts

In a world where shooters often must compromise between features, performance, and price, the Hammerli Forge H1 stands out as a handgun that delivers on all fronts. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or someone just starting their journey, the H1 is a firearm that deserves serious consideration.

With its combination of precision, power, and performance, the Hammerli Forge H1 isn’t just a tool—it’s an experience.

For more information, please visit HammerliArms.com.

Hammerli Forge H1 Specs

Performance